York and Doncaster have missed out on becoming home to the new HQ for GR Rail.
Derby has been named as the national headquarters of Great British Railways (GBR HQ), marking a key milestone in the Government’s plan to reform the nation’s railways.
It comes as a blow for York which had been shortlisted as one of the potential sites for the HQ. The York bid had been backed by both the City of York Council and North Yorkshire County Council.
Birmingham, Crewe, Derby, Doncaster, Newcastle-upon-Tyne and York had made the shortlist.
In today's announcement of the chosen location the Government say:
"Derby came top of all six excellent locations in both the rigorous assessment process and the public vote. Their application demonstrated strong links to the wider network, well-established connections with the industry, supply chain and customers, as well as an extensive local cluster of private sector rail businesses. "
Transport Secretary, Mark Harper said:
“It’s full steam ahead for the reform of our railways and today’s announcement is not only a huge win for the brilliant city of Derby, but a key milestone for the entire rail industry across the country.
“Great British Railways will put the passenger first, promoting collaboration and innovation across a joined-up, efficient and modern network.”
The Government says that while Great British Railway’s headquarters will be in Derby, other towns and cities across Britain, potentially including the five shortlisted cities, will still benefit, becoming powered up regional GBR hubs equipped with local decision making, and investment powers aimed at benefiting their local communities and further creating jobs in the locations they serve.
GBR will also have roles spanning across Great Britain including the North, South East, South West and London, with the HQ driving collaboration and innovation across the sector.
The Government says it is working closely and collaboratively with the Great British Transition Team to co-design the future of our railways. Passengers and freight customers will be GBR’s key priority, the new body will also take control of the industry's finances to drive efficiency and work with the private sector to deliver for customers.
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